LPU Announces Cash Reward of Rs 25 Lakhs For Student Vinesh Phogat, Despite Olympic Disqualification

New Delhi: In a heartwarming gesture, Lovely Professional University (LPU) has announced a cash reward of ₹25 lakhs for its student Vinesh Phogat, even though she faced disqualification from the Paris Olympics 2024. This reward was originally reserved for silver medalist students, underscoring the university's steadfast support for its student-athletes.

Vinesh Phogat Disqualified From Olympic

Vinesh Phogat, a promising wrestler and LPU student, made history as the first Indian woman to reach the final of a wrestling event in the Olympic Games. However, she was disqualified after being found overweight by just 100 grams during the weigh-in on the morning of the competition.

‘We Stand By Vinesh’

Despite this setback, LPU has stood firmly behind Phogat. Dr. Ashok Kumar Mittal, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Founder Chancellor of LPU, stated, "For us, Vinesh is still a medal winner. Her dedication and skill throughout her journey deserve recognition, and we are proud to award her the promised prize money of ₹25 lakhs, which was reserved for silver medalists."

The university's commitment to supporting its student-athletes extends beyond Phogat. LPU has announced a comprehensive cash reward program for students who win medals at the Paris Olympics. Gold medalists will receive ₹50 lakhs, silver medalists ₹25 lakhs, and bronze medalists ₹10 lakhs.

24 LPU Students Representing India

LPU boasts a significant presence at the Paris Olympics, with 24 students representing India in various sports disciplines, including javelin, wrestling, hockey, athletics, weightlifting, shooting, and boxing. This contingent makes up 21% of the overall Indian team, making LPU the second-largest contingent globally after Stanford University.

LPU's dedication to its athletes is evident in its investment in world-class sports infrastructure, including an Olympic-size all-weather indoor swimming pool, diving pool, warming pool, 16 badminton courts, multiple squash courts, basketball courts, and a shooting range. The university also provides 100% scholarships to promising athletes, ensuring their holistic development.

LPU's student-athletes have consistently excelled, with achievements such as Kho-Kho team captain Nasreen Sheikh receiving the prestigious Arjuna Award. The university also secured the first runner-up position for the Maka Trophy, becoming the first private university to achieve this feat.